Archie vs. Predator #1 (Dark Horse) Just I&N OK, so, like, well, everyone else, I pretty much discovered the Archie-verse with Afterlife and regretted not having visited Riverdale more often after reading–along with everyone else–Life With Archie #36. (Heck of a time to jump on board, eh?) Despite my last-second, Scotty-come-lately Archievement, I was pretty settled on passing on this one. I mean, it sounds silly–sure, like Afterlife didn’t–and I didn’t know from Alex De Campi–until I read No Mercy (Image), which was really, really good. So, yeah, I’ve gone from I don’t care to Just I&N–just like that!

Millennium #4 (IDW): It’s not just Jordan, folks: it’s adult Jordan! That move’s a slam dunk in my book! After three issues, there’s no doubt: this is for hardcore Millennium fans only. Good thing I make a point of watching all three seasons on DVD every summer. Heh. Who knew that old practice would come in handy some day? Oh, but it has: it’s kept me so very ready for the further adventures of Frank Black.

The Fade Out #5 (Image): Honesty: I remember liking #4, but I can’t remember what the hell happened. Rrrrrrrrrrrr <—-That’s my avoiding using an obvious pun.

Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses #3 (Image) I&N Demand #1 was our #3 book of February. #2 didn’t quite reach that level, but it still scratched that itch.

Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses #3

Magneto #17 (Marvel): Erik’s past has come back to haunt him. No, not that past. Not that one, either. It’s his past-past, his waaaay past–his WWII past: a Nazi tormentor has come to Genosha; he’s murdering mutants and promising to murder more. There’s no way Erik can abide that. Something tells me revenge is in the offing–after he cleans off his bathroom mirror with some disinfectant spray, of course.

Uncanny X-Men #33 (Marvel): The X-Verse has been falling apart for some time now. Took me long enough, but I’ve finally given up on All-New. I should’ve given up on this one, too. So, so terrible. #31 had Cyclops berated by some nobody student in a moment that felt as unauthentic as Harper Row’s inexplicably lighting into Batman back in Batman #whocares; #32 saw him knocked out by Gold Balls. No, really: he was hit in the head with Gold Balls’ gold balls. This one looks like it’s going to be another patented X-filler issue. It’s Unnecessary X-Men #33! Yeah, I think it’s time.

Bloodshot: Reborn #1 (Valiant): I’m off Descender and All-New Hawkeye after trying two of each. Believe me: I want to love something that Jeff Lemire’s writing; I really do. That’s why I keep trying. And here I am, trying again.

Crossed +100 #4 (Avatar) I&N Demand Alan Moore’s brought a touch of Burgess to his narration and dialogue, making his take on Ennis’s mad, mad, mad, mad world read like A Crossedwork Red. No joke: #3 was not an easy read; but there’s still something terribly compelling about it, mainly because Moore’s clearly building–and patiently so–toward something–something big, maybe something not so big at all, who knows? Maybe he’s forging headlong into the heart of darkness, which he’s done before, and which would mean we’re in for a Conradian adventure–one that’s an exercise in superhuman patience. Because, let’s be honest, we all know that anything worth having is worth the work–and the wait. That’s what I skull, anyway.

Giant Days #2 (BOOM!) I&N Demand I had no idea what to expect from Giant Days. Maybe that’s why I ended up loving it as much as I did. Could also be because it’s just that good. Damn thing’s hilarious. Keep an eye out: I’m going to fight to include #1 in our Top 5 for March.

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #2 (Archie) I&N Demand Man, I’ve been waiting for this.#1 was one of my favorite single issues of 2014. It was so good–so much better than that other, over-hyped wytch-themed book that overshadowed it; you know, the one that cast a spell with its creators’ names but ended up delivering a real wooden piece of “CHHIT.” No, Sabrina does everything right: it’s a masterclass in storytelling–in juxtaposition, in pacing, and most important, in horror–from Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa–the genius behind Afterlife With Archie–and the panel-perfect Robert Hack. What a mind-eff, no? Seems the comic book home of true terror is Archie Horror!

The Sixth Gun: Dust to Dust #3 (Oni): Yay! I get to add another issue to my Sixth Gun pile.

Avery’s Pick of the Week

My Little Pony: Fiendship Is Magic #3 (IDW): Avery’s Grammy saw #2, read the title through Fiendship, and stopped short with an “Oh.” I assured her that it’s a series about some of the Pony villains. Turns out that my definition of assured isn’t the same as hers.

Last week had me Wow-ing more per book than any week in the recent past. Here’s the near future:

Mister X: Razed #2 (Dark Horse) I&N Demand No surprise here: we loved #1. It easily fell into our Top 5 Books of February, the result of the tasty termites and the hungry peregrine pigeons, which, of course, is Christmas come a bit late, you know, in the perfectly-wrapped gift of Dean Motter’s icicle-sharp storytelling. (Deep breath.) It’s everything we loved about Mr. X: Eviction, which was just as easily our #1 Book of 2013. Don’t remember why? Remind yourself.

Mister X: Razed #2

PastAways #1 (Dark Horse) Just I&N With his nonpareil Mind MGMT in its stretch run, main man Matt Kindt takes aim–along with artist Scott Kolins–at a fresh future with PastAways, the latest–and most assuredly not the last–entry in the suddenly supersaturated–and not-so-fresh–time-traveling-team market. Yeah, but it doesn’t matter if it’s good, right?

PastAways #1

The Multiversity: Ultra Comics #1 (DC): Re: Mastermen: Morrison and Lee bowled me over with their opening “splash” page–light a match, Adolph! I mean, c’mon: Hitler on the can, reading Superman? Hey, why Nazi? They played it for a laugh–and got it!–and forged a connection between the Führer and me. I was like, that’s what I look like when I’m reading during “Daddy Time,” you know, just without the mustache and the swastika. Yeah, otherwise, pretty spot on. After that, the rest of the book played out well–despite Lee’s pin-up-per-panel approach, which robs the story–artistically, anyway–of any momentum. Not the best single Multiversity issue, but still plenty metafun. This month, Morrison and Mahnke promise to make me “an integral part of the resistance.” Can’t resist that!

The Autumnlands: Tooth & Claw #5 (Image) I&N Demand Pretty great all around. Sure, while Busiek’s been busy building this remarkably engaging world, Astro City‘s suffered a bit. (The Quarrel arc is arguably the weakest multi-issue story since our return to the City.) But that’s all right–especially now that the game is a(Good)foot.

The Autumnlands: Tooth & Claw #5

They’re Not Like Us #4 (Image): They may not be like them, but concerns are rising: we’re three issues in and some of what’s going on is a lot like some of what’s already gone on. Still love the design, though; love getting right to it! And still hanging on the promise made at the end of #1.

Daredevil #14 (Marvel): Ooh, ooh! A Shroud of secrecy! Yeah, that pretty much made it all worth it. As Waid and Samnee are making their way to the end of their run, I can’t help but think about Matt’s exes and wonder: what’s gonna happen to Kirsten? I’m leaning toward this one breaking the mold.

Uncanny X-Men #32 (Marvel): Eva’s conversation with Scott left me feeling like I did after Snyder’s Harper Row lit into Batman (in the regrettable Batman #18). That’s not a good thing. Oh, and so, as it all works out, it’s like nothing ever happened, which is always gratifying. Love that. Oh, oh, and maybe the once and future leader of the X-Men isn’t so far from his grand return. Ugh! I hate all the secrets and the wars that rage as a result of them!

The Black Hood #2 (Archie): I was surprised by how much I liked the first one. What sold it: the last page. As cheesy as it was, it felt authentic, heroic. I needed that. Great stuff from Gaydos.

The Bunker #10 (Oni): I’m feeling somewhat disconnected from The Bunker at this point. If it were released on a more regular basis…

Hit: 1957 #1 (BOOM!): I was surprised that Hit earned a Harvey nomination because it wasn’t great. Sure, it hit the right notes at the start–and at its soul was something to celebrate; but it didn’t come together well, as evidenced by the unremarkable end. I’ll thumb through to see if Del Rey’s art is enough of a draw to warrant a try. Otherwise, I’m going to pass.

Mono #4 (Titan): Through three now, I’m kinda feeling like I did after the summer after I graduated from high school–you know, after saying hi and goodbye to four different girls before leaving for college, and after learning that I had a case of mono, one bad enough to keep me home for what would’ve been my first semester at Penn State. Just like that, actually.

Quantum and Woody Must Die #3 (Valiant): Funny, funny, funny!

The Sixth Gun #47 (Oni): The stack grows.

The Valiant #4 (Valiant): #3 didn’t hit me like #2 did. Resulted in a bit of a letdown, especially as the entirety of the Valiant Universe gets further mired in Lemire’s return to Rotworld.

The Twilight Zone: Shadow and Substance #3 (Dynamite): The first two-issue arc didn’t live up to Straczynski’s standard–but how could it? I’m probably going to pass.

We Can Never Go Home #1 (Black Mask): I haven’t like much of what I’ve tried from Black Mask. This one sounds interesting enough. I’ll thumb through to be fair.

Avery’s Picks of the Week

My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic #29 (IDW): My wife just came home from Stop & Shop with eight more Pony blind bags. Thanks a lot DCTC! We’re drowning in Ponies over here–new ones and duplicates! I think we have three Pursey Pinks, for crying out loud!

Abigail and The Snowman #4 (BOOM!): My daughter’s dug it plenty–even if the Snowman is more Bumble than Olaf.

Wednesday’s forecast for the weather outside of my local comic shop is pretty much the same as its been: as cold as can be. (I guess someone’s gone and ticked off Elsa again.) The forecast for inside, however, is hot hot hot! (That’s right: the way to thaw a frozen heart is with an act of true love–in this case, a perfectly pulled bag of comics!) Speaking of hot books: our Top Ten Books of 2014 is well represented this week. Take a peek:

I know better, though: B&R‘s been a huge disappointment for months now. In fact, I finally got around to dropping it from my pull list last month. No longer under any obligation, I should leave it on the shelf and fill the void with something new. God knows there will be plenty of players for the spot. Image alone has a thousand new titles coming out in the next few months, so…

Autumnlands: Tooth & Claw #4 (Image): I can’t be the only one who’s noticed: the current arc of Astro City‘s been a bit blah; but this has been really, really good. Coincidence?

Bitch Planet #3 (Image): I enjoyed #1 for all sorts of reasons (exploiting exploitation, lots of Tarantino, hints of Fraction, etc.). Hey: borrowing works well when it works well. Oh, but when it doesn’t… #2 lost me from the get-go–especially as I was taken immediately to a low budget modern-day exploitation flick that I caught one night on one of the Showtime or HBO channels: Raze, starring Tarantino darling Zoë Bell. Coincidence?

Raze (2013)

I’ll try this one and see where it takes me.

Lazarus #15 (Image) I&N Demand Our #2 book of 2014! It’s what we’ve been waiting for for like, well, forever: Forever in a Trial by Combat against another Lazarus!

All-New Captain America #4 (Marvel): I know, I know. But it hasn’t been terrible. And this time out, Remender’s dusting off the Armadillo! Gotta wonder, though, what effect Secret Wars is going to have on this little experiment–and if it’s worth following a dead title shelf-sitting.

Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #9 (Marvel): I love what Kaare Andrews is doing with Danny Rand. In fact, Iron Fist was my #16 book of 2014–and my third-favorite superhero monthly after Silver Surfer and Moon Knight. High praise, indeed!

Magneto #15 (Marvel): Bunn’s done a nice job of telling stories from issue to issue. He’s delivered some nice twists along the way, too. #14 ended with Magneto’s giving himself up to S.H.I.E.L.D. Wonder what his endgame is…

Moon Knight #12 (Marvel) I&N Demand Our #8 book of 2014! #11 ended on a bit of a down note–you know, with Marc Spector falling out of a flying detention facility and all. (Wood and Smallwood must’ve watched–and liked–Stallone’s waterlogged–yet undeniably watchable–prison break bingo, Escape Plan, as they delivered quite an homage with Spector in Stallone’s role and Khonshu in Schwarzenegger’s.) Not looking forward to saying goodbye to Wood and Smallwood, but I am looking forward to seeing how they end their arc–and how they leave things for Cullen Bunn and Ron Ackins. Maybe they’ll reach back to Bullet to the Head. Or Avenging Angelo…

Uncanny X-Men #31 (Marvel): Bendis is on his way out. That promises some real havoc in the X-Universe. No, really–look:

Uncanny X-Men #31

Burning Fields #2 (BOOM!): Kinda like a cross between The Killing and Homeland. Not a bad thing.

Cap Stone #3 (Titan): Some real high points: the conversation between Charlie and her mom; the wild shifts in Sharp’s artwork. Some low points, too: the conversation between Charlie and her mom; the wild shifts in Sharp’s artwork. I loved #1. #2, however, exposed a serious flaw: inconsistency. Still intriguing enough, though.

Mono #3 (Titan): Another book from Liam Sharp that took a step back after a very promising premier. What spoiled the sophomore offering: the conversation–coincidence?–between Heinrich and Isabella, which acts as a dragline on the storyline. Also seems waaaaaay too serious for a book about an ape-man secret agent and assassin for the Queen, doesn’t it? It’s so goddamned dour! I do like the layered approach that Sharp’s taking to create the Mono myth, however.

The Valiant #3 (Valiant) I&N Demand I liked #1 enough–but I absolutely loved #2! I was particularly struck by the artistic collaboration between Lemire and Kindt on the storybook section. Sure, many of the notes that are struck remind of Lemire’s run on Animal Man; but what the hell–they work well here, so all the better!

The Valiant #3

The Twilight Zone #12 (Dynamite) I&N Demand Our #10 book of 2014! This issue ends an extremely powerful arc and Straczynski and Vilanova’s superior run. So sad to see this go. Hmm. Maybe–just maybe–I could travel back in time and kill another series–Dream Police, for instance–in its place…

Bodies #7 (DC/Vertigo): An autopsy has revealed that there’s life yet in Bodies. Oops. Nothing more awkward than a premature postmortem. Sorry, Mr. Spencer et al. Didn’t mean to doubt. I’m believing again–and just in time, too.

Alex + Ada #12 (Image): So beautifully human. Sure, the dialogue reads like it’s right out of an episode of Girlmore Girls–you know, that bizarre, hypnotic monotone that’s so damn maddening. Thing is, it’s not off-putting here; it’s actually strangely affecting. But most of all, I love the subtle shifts in the art from one panel to the next. Speaks so loudly without a single word.

Bitch Planet #2 (Image): Ouch! Kelly Sue DeConnick went and bitch slapped me and my low expectations for her women in prison send up. I’m man enough to admit: in #1, she exploits exploitation expertly, reminiscent of Tarantino at times–which is a pretty deadly compliment. Here’s another: throughout, I heard–more so, I saw with a hawk’s eye, if only in fractions, her hubby’s voice. Heck, yeah, I’m gonna grab #2. Doesn’t mean I’m in for life. We’ll call it probation–with higher expectations this time around.

The Dying & the Dead #1 (Image): Just I&N Jonathan Hickman’s Image work has been pretty great–particularly East of West, which has been nothing short of great of late. No reason to expect anything less here.

The Dying & The Dead #1

Rasputin #4 (Image): I was mostly on board through two. #3, however, felt a little light on substance. I’ll thumb through this one and hope for heavier. Wouldn’t be the worst thing if I decided to drop it, if I’m being honest.

They’re Not Like Us #2 (Image) I&N Demand OK, so, we’ve heard this one before, right? Of course we have. And we’ll keep hearing it, too–but maybe not quite like this. See: all those other X-wannabes are not like They’re Not Like Us. Ha! I worked it out! Anyway… Sure, the book read well enough: the writing’s solid; the art works. But I wasn’t completely sold until the end note. Yeah, that’s a damn fine way to end a familiar tune. Hoping that Stephenson and Gane keep separating themselves from the others with a strong sophomore effort.

They’re Not Like Us #2

Zero #14 (Image): I&N Demand One of our favorite books of 2014. (Just how favorite? You’ll have to wait to find out.) After a big time low point, Kot’s found his voice–which, at times, has been splendidly silent, allowing the artiste du mois to do the real talking. Very much looking forward to what Kot’s got in store for us to kick off 2015.

Zero #14

Thor #4 (Marvel): Despite its heavy handedness–not related to Mjolnir, mind you–#1 was a promising start. Since then, however, the book’s reminded of Superior Spider-Man–everything I hated about Superior Spider-Man. I should probably pass.

Uncanny X-Men #30 (Marvel): Uncanny‘s been a ton better than All-New of late. And that’s all I have to say about that.

The Damnation of Charlie Wormwood #4 (Dynamite): Everyone loves a good ethical dilemma. No one does ’em better in comics than J. Michael Straczynski (The Twilight Zone). He’s not writing this. But it’s not bad. Credit Christina Blanch and Chris Carr for the fact that TDoCW is engaging on that “What would you do in the same situation?” kind of level. (For the record: I’d do whatever it takes to take care of my daughters; so I feel for Charlie–and am rooting for him.) I think my interest is amplified by the fact that good ol’ Charlie Wormwood’s an English teacher, who most assuredly has learned a lesson or two about ethical dilemmas through the novels and stories he’s read and taught through the years. He probably never thought he’d be the one sitting across the table from the devil…

Evil Empire #10 (BOOM!): I&N Demand I really like what Max Bemis has been doing in his crazy country worth of comicbook. Evil Empire is smart, aware, fearless, and, above all, entertaining as &%$@. Happy to see Victor Santos–owner of a very distinct style–on visuals. And, as always, Jay Shaw on cover duty:

Evil Empire #10

Quantum and Woody Must Die #1 (Valiant): Yeah, I love Quantum and Woody and what Asmus has done with them, but I’m leaning toward leaving this on the shelf. I just don’t like the games Valiant’s playing with the all-of-a-sudden minis and one-shots. Just give me a damn series to follow! For example:

X-O Manowar #32 (Valiant): I can’t believe I’m thirty-two issues in! Credit to Robert Venditti. He’s so good at X’s and O’s that he could probably coach a basketball team. Hell, he could take over the Knicks right now. Couldn’t do any worse than Derek Fisher. Right?

Avery’s Pick of the Week

My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic #27 (IDW): My daughter loves her ponies–and not just in comics, either. We’re an MLP blind bag family, thanks mostly to DCTC (Disney Cars Toy Club)–otherwise known as YouTube Crack for Kids. We opened two blind bags tonight. Got a new one–Lucky Swirl, who looks a lot like Twilight Sparkle–and a “same duplicate,” as my daughter calls it. Yup: another Neon Lights. Yay.

The Massive #25 (Dark Horse): Since February, The Massive has been an I&N monthly Top 5 Book. That’s a record five months in a row! On the strength of that, I think it’s safe to say that Brian Wood’s book is headed for the Top Ten of 2014. For the most part, “Sahara” delivered its powerful feminist message in the understated manner–Women! Water! Life!–we’ve come to expect from Wood. (If I’m being fair, Part Three felt a bit preachy at times, but not to the detriment of the issue or of the arc.) The final arc–with its promise of Massive answers–begins here.

Veil #4 (Dark Horse): Has been somewhat disappointing–the last issue, in particular. I’m not caring too much about the femme ratale. There’s something all too familiar about her. Fejzula’s art’s been good, though. I’m riding it out because it’s a fiver.

East of West #14 (Image): Has been North of Excellent. Hickman and Dragotta certainly took their time building a big world–which is Hickman’s bag, ain’t it?; oh, but they’ve been hitting big–no, really big notes of late. (#12, in particular, was ridiculously good.) A dark robot horse for my personal pick for the Top Ten of 2014.

Fatale #24 (Image): Lots of love for the poetic penultimate issue. I thought it was spectacular, really–visually (different for Phillips on Fatale that’s for sure) and in terms of revelations. Brubaker went Big Bang, man. As I’m remembering, I’m still kinda affected by the whole thing with Josephine’s son. Creepy as hell, but, in the end, necessary, no? Speaking of the end: this is the femme finale–and I have no doubt: “It’s going to hurt.” Yeah, it’s going to be tough to say goodbye to one of our favorite books.

Fatale #24

Low #1 (Image): I couldn’t be any lower on a creator than I am on Remender. Why would I do this to myself??

Outcast #2 (Image): “Demons are the new zombies,” eh? The first issue was a decent set up. It’s no Thomas Alsop, that’s for sure; but I’ll give it a few, you know, to see where it goes. (If you’re not reading Thomas Alsop from BOOM! yet, get on that. You won’t be disappointed.)

Hawkeye #19 (Marvel): Listen up! Apparently, it’s taken Aja a long time to master the art of sign language for this issue. That’s right: try to remember–or I’ll remind: Clint’s gone deaf. So…

Hawkeye #19

Uncanny X-Men #24 (Marvel): I missed the last issue. As a result, I have no idea what secrets Xavier’s will revealed. Now that’s a sin!

A big week with some stand-out books and a few make-or-breakers, too. Toss in a bunch of #1’s and you’ve got yourself a pretty full bag.

Oh, and a picture of a wrestler.

Robin Rises: Omega #1 (DC): It’s all led to this. By it, I mean: early on, Tomasi did a terrific job of toeing the Bat-line that Morrison drew in Batman Inc.; but for the most part the post-Two Face team-ups were terribly tedious. Stitching Batman to Frankenstein worked well, however, because of its acting as a natural segue into Robin’s resurrection–or whatever’s going to go down. Who knows? Maybe Robin’ll come back less human than human; maybe he’ll forevermore be known as–wait for it–Robzombie.

Robin Rises: Omega #1

The Squidder #1 (IDW): Trying out some new Ben Templesmith, who’s trying out some words along with his usually stunning images.

The Last Fall #1 (IDW): Writer Tom Waltz has had a hand in making TMNT a must buy. I’m willing to give him a shot here.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #36 (IDW): That’s right: TMNTis a must buy. The story’s been solid, and Mateus Santolouco’s art has been instrumental in redefining the Turtles.

TMNT #36

Rat Queens #7 (Image): The Unreal Queens of Comedy are back to offend our sensibilities–and, as #6 proved, to make us like ’em all a little bit more. (Yeah, the four-panel first page snagged me but good.) One thing that keeps me coming back for more: it reminds me of the late Drew Hayes’s Poison Elves. (God, I loved Poison Elves!)

The Wicked & The Divine #2 (Image): The title’s got me thinking less about the book itself and more about Kieron Gillen. I love Uber and really liked Three (Divine!); his post-Schism Uncanny X-Men was unreadable, and Young Avengers was wildly over-hyped (Wicked!). After #1, I’m leaning toward the latter. One thing going for it: it read not unlike a Johnathan Hickman book–just with characters who are annoying as hell.

Magneto #7 (Marvel): While #5 fell a bit flat, #6 reestablished Magneto’s mojo–with a vengeance! It’s all about vengeance, ain’t it? Good for us. Kudos to Cullen Bunn, who has gone a long way toward establishing himself as the master of the Master of Magnetism.

Ms. Marvel #6 (Marvel): #5 was the weakest issue thus far. Not saying it wasn’t good; there was just something…inconsistent about it. Wondering how the new artist–Jake Wyatt–will affect the book, especially considering how instrumental Adrian Alphona has been in making this book so magical from the get-go . I’m still very high on Kamala, though.

Not this one…

This one. Duh.

Silver Surfer #4 (Marvel): We’ve celebrated #1 and #2 as Top 5 books–of March and April, respectively. And, not surprisingly, you’ll soon find that we liked #3 a whole lot, too. No doubt: this last wave of Marvel books has been damn good; and of the bunch riding it–including the aforementioned Ms. Marvel and Magneto, plus the knockout Iron Fist–Slott and Allred’s Silver Surfer is the Big Kahuna.

Silver Surfer #4

Uncanny X-Men #23 (Marvel): I’ve admitted it already, but I’ll do so again; see, it needs to be emphasized–especially since I was such a tough customer: I like what Bendis is doing on both X-books. That’s right: I’m a believer! And not simply on the strength of one or two issues of each; no, I’d still be cautious–maybe even rude–with such a small sampling. After several issues of each–of All-New and Uncanny–I haven’t had a single thing to complain about! Well, it’s more than just not having something to complain about: Bendis has found the all-important balance between the serious and the silly that must be struck in order for the X-Men to work. Works for me.

The Last Broadcast #3 (Archaia): Thus far, The Last Broadcast has been a magical experience! In fact, we’re going to be celebrating #2 as a top book of June, you know, when we finally get around to it. Seriously, though, Andre Sirangelo and Gabriel Iumazark have pieced together an engrossing mystery that plays like a Polanski film (Frantic, The Ninth Gate). (Hey, I might use that in my Top 5 review…)

The Last Broadcast #3

The Devilers #1 (Dynamite): If I see Joshua Hale Fialkov’s name on a book, I’m going to buy the book. Where he’s at now (The Bunker, The Life After), odds are good this’ll be hella good.

Avery’s Picks of the Week:

Scribblenauts Unmasked: A Crisis of Imagination #7 (DC): She’s got the first six, so there’s no stopping now–even if she has no idea what’s going on. After all, we’re a family of completists. Unless a book really sucks, of course.

Eye of Newt #1 (Dark Horse): I ain’t a fan of The Hobbit and I ain’t looking to make a habit outta buying books that tease Tolkienesque quests. But this new release from Michael Hague looks awfully pretty. Reminds of Rebecca Guay.

Eye of Newt #1

Batman and Ra’s al Ghul #32 (DC): OK, so, I’ve been touting this title for over a year now, mostly because of how well Tomasi dealt with the aftermath of Morrison’s fatal calculus. Since the Two-Face arc, however, it just hasn’t added up–that is until #31, which offered the return of Frankenstein and a breath of fresh art from guest artist Doug Mahnke.

Wonder Woman #32 (DC): Wanna talk about women in comics? The conversation begins and ends with Wonder Woman. In the Battle of the Bulging Bag, the new God of War is the clear winner.

Wonder Woman #32

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #35 (IDW):No longer gets a bump from being a surprise–and doesn’t need it! I think we can all agree: Mateus Santolouco owns the Turtles. If we’re lucky, he’ll never leave.

Winterworld #1 (IDW): Chuck Dixon and Butch Guice? Yes, please!

Alex + Ada #7 (Image): Sure, Ada only recently gained sentience; but let’s face it: this book’s been full of life from the get-go.

Alex + Ada #7

Fatale #23 (Image): #22 worked for what it was. This one promises to be “the strangest issue […] yet.” Guess that means a helluva lot of strange. Aw, hell, Brubaker and Phillips may as well wring out the strange sponge on their way out.

The Manhattan Projects #21 (Image): Gee whiz! An issue featuring a dog! Haven’t read one of those in while.

The Wicked & The Divine #1 (Image): Kieron Gillen’s a must try. Jamie McKelvie’s clean style will go a long way toward letting Gillen tell his story about young gods living the life–until they die.

Daredevil #4 (Marvel): Who?

Daredevil #4

Silver Surfer #3 (Marvel): #2 earned its place in our Top 5 for April. Read about it here and discover why Silver Surfer belongs in your bag, too.

Harbinger #24 (Valiant): Almost done. Shame, really. Has been one of the better superhero team books around.

The Last Broadcast #2 (Archaia): #1 was terrific! Can’t wait to discover what’s next! Hoping pretty hard that Andre Sirangelo can keep the same pace here in #2.

Magnus: Robot Fighter #4 (Dynamite): Fred Van Lente’s a busy man, but he’s not letting it show in his work; he writes each book as if it’s his only one. Absolutely loved #3–especially when the Robot Fighter’s fist met a flying car’s front end in a spectacular spread by Corey Smith. Speaking of fists:

Magnus: Robot Fighter #4

Translucid #3 (BOOM!): #2 was the runner-up for Biggest Dis(appointment) of May. There’s a fine line between a juvenile affect and juvenilia. Hoping for more than a month’s worth of maturity here with #3.

Yup: I’ll be walking out of Android’s Amazing Comics with two full bags of books. This is the longest list yet and is a testament to my insatiable appetite, my unchecked addiction for comics.

American Vampire: The Second Cycle #3 (DC/Vertigo): The standout Snyder moment of #2: the creature with an imploring Peter inside of it. Creepy as hell. Speaking of: I wasn’t so tempted by the devil of an ending. But even after two issues, it’s clear that this is where Snyder does his best work.

American Vampire: The Second Cycle #3

Batman and Frankenstein #31 (DC): My interest is on life support. It’s the promise of Frankenstein that’s keeping it alive. For now. See: Tomasi’s not as sharp as he’s been; and Gleason, in the last issue, disappointed with his wonky Wonder Woman. I know they’re building toward the return of Robin and that that’s going to be epic, blah, blah, blah. But shouldn’t each issue leading up to it be just as epic–and if not, at least be as tight as an Amazon? I’m talking temper. What’d you think I was talking about?

Wonder Woman #31 (DC): Speaking of tight Amazons: #30 was excellent. Nearly made our Top 5 Books of April. I mean, come on: how about that last page. Make a wish, indeed! That’s high praise for a book that’s been solid, sure, but that has rarely hit a homerun. And even when it has, they’ve been softball homeruns. This last issue, however, would’ve been out of any Big League park–well, except for maybe Citi Field.

Monster and Madman #3 (IDW): Has been a fun ride thus far. Niles doesn’t just hit the right notes–he slays them; and Worm’s art provides a perfectly horrific backdrop for this grotesque get-together.

A Voice in the Dark #7 (Image): I’m hoping that this arc ender screams bloody murder! Just sayin’.

East of West #12 (Image): Hickman’s a world builder who works at his own pace: he takes his time laying a foundation and has certainly taken his time here, that’s for sure. Of late, however, stories are thrusting skyward with such force so as to pierce our patient expectations. Protect your eyes, friends, because East of West is finally fulfilling promises.

Velvet #5 (Image): Brubaker and Epting are doin’ their thing, and it’s rubbing me the right way. Reads a lot like–but isn’t quite as good as–Rucka and Lark’s Lazarus. The first arc ends here. Expecting a bang or two.

Zero #8 (Image): #7 was a well-crafted return to form after a very disappointing, near-nonsensical #6.

Daredevil #3 (Marvel): #2 was Daredevil in every sense–including sight: it’s dark, it’s funny–it’s fearless. New York, San Fran: doesn’t matter; this hero’s the heart of any city he’s in.

Daredevil #3

Elektra #2 (Marvel): I may have to pass. Sai. W. Haden Blackman’s writing was enigmatic at times (as it could be in Batwoman)–and, I mean, come on: Bloody Lips?! A villainous vagina dentata! Ouch! Doesn’t help that we’re headed to Monster Island. Because when I think of Elektra, I think of Monster Island.

Original Sin #2 (Marvel): Jason Aaron’s earned my attention with a killer kickoff to Southern Bastards, which means I’m going to give in to Sin even though I wasn’t exactly thrilled by it.

Uncanny X-Men #21 (Marvel): This is weird for me; yeah, I’m not used to saying this: #20 was pretty good. I dig me some Chris Bachalo, and Bendis kept him mighty busy.

The Bunker #4 (Oni Press): Continues to be a revelation: Fialkov’s showing complete mastery over time with his simultaneous storylines, and Infurnari’s sketchy style complements the shifts so very well. There’s danger lurking around the corner, however: I can see a heavy hand hovering over future pages–one ready to abuse the abuse angle. Oh, if that happens, I’m going to say, “No!”; then I’m going to go and tell someone I trust.

Ordinary #1 (Titan): Sounds fun enough. I’ve liked Royals: Masters of War enough to give Rob Williams another shot. Plus, Titan’s offered up some pretty solid books–including Death Sentence and Numbercruncher, which has been nominated for the 2014 Innie for Best Limited Series and has, in part, earned Si Spurrier (also considered for his work on BOOM!’s Six-Gun Gorilla) a nomination for Best Writer.

Solar: Man of the Atom #2 (Dynamite): Still haven’t read #1. Not sure if I care enough, if I’m being fair.

Translucid #2 (BOOM!): Lots of good things going on in #1. Lovely, lovely layers delivered by Claudio Sanchez, Chondra Echert (writers/creators), Daniel Bayliss (artist, who reminds of Jeff Stokely, who just so happens to be the cover artist!), and Adam Metcalfe (colorist). Has got me thinking Six-Gun Gorilla, which is a good thing.

Translucid #2

Unity #7 (Valiant): I was going to pull the plug after #5, but #6 ended up in my bag because I had forgotten to purge it from my pull list. And then Kindt had to go all Mind MGMT with Dr. Silk’s virus. So, yeah, seven.

X-O Manowar #25 (Valiant): It’s no secret: big events usually turn me off. Preludes to big events usually piss me off. In the case of #24, however, I was actually pleasantly surprised. Who knew I’d be looking forward to Armor Hunters?

Can’t buy ’em all. That’s why I narrow it down to a select many every week.

Dark Horse Presents #34 (Dark Horse): A pricey pick, that’s for sure; but a gotta grab because Dean Motter’s magnificent Mister X is making his much anticipated return to the DHU. And we love us some Mister X: if you didn’t already know–and you’d be in rare company–Mister X: Eviction was our #1 book of 2013.

Dark Horse Presents #34

Skyman #3 (Dark Horse): Has been OK. My interest level in this book increased exponentially after reading Joshua Hale Fialkov’s The Bunker. Makes this a bit of a potential pick. Thing is, as a four-issue mini, Skyman might not have the time to realize that potential. On a positive note, I’m willing to go the distance because it’s a mini. Wouldn’t have been so willing if it had been an ongoing.

The Witcher #1 (Dark Horse): Capable horror scribe Paul Tobin (Colder) makes it a maybe. The fact that it’s based on a video game makes it a maybe not. May also pass on this one.

American Vampire: Second Cycle #1 (DC/Vertigo): I’ve been looking forward to this! Oh, sure, I bashed Batman a time or two and have been mostly put to sleep by The Wake (that is until #6, which was, pretty much, in The Wake world, anyhow, the equivalent of a cold shower!). But that doesn’t mean I’m a Snyder hater; in fact, I happen to love American Vampire. Consumed ’em all in trade form and am ready for the next course!

Animal Man #29 (DC): Jumped off a while ago. Wondering if it’s worth picking up seeing as it’s the last issue and all. Love Lemire’s cover:

Suicide Squad #29 (DC): Hasn’t been as good as I had hoped it’d be with Kindt in command. Riding out his run, anyway.

Wonder Woman #29 (DC): It’s no surprise that this is the only New 52 book I’ve stuck with–without missing an issue–from #1. It’s no myth: Brian Azzarello has made a monthly living of being good. Of drawing out the story, sure, but of being good, nevertheless.

A Voice in the Dark #5 (Image): Well, I certainly didn’t celebrate #4. (Check out my review here.) What I have celebrated, however, is the potential that Larime Taylor has shown–especially in a terrific #2. Here, I’m hoping to see more than a return to form: I’m hoping to see improved pacing. This book desperately needs to cut to the chase–and draw some blood in the process.

A Voice in the Dark #5

Fuse #2 (Image): #1 was an offer I could easily refuse–not re-Fuse, mind you. Leaning toward leaving it on the shelf.

Lazarus #7 (Image): #6 was terrific–as always. In it, Rucka and Lark build some serious tension, which neither slacks nor snaps. It’s no wonder that Lazarus was our #7 book of 2013.

Sex Criminals #5 (Image): #4 was a bit of a rebound from a not-so-good #3, which was our Biggest Dis(appointment) of November 2013. I’m going to go one more round and see what happens. Let’s call this my having faith in Fraction. Sure, he’s a mad god; he’s an effing oversexed overlord! But when he’s good, he’s damn good. If Fraction’s big three books were a menage a trois–ain’t they, though?–Sex Criminals would be on the bottom–and loving it, no doubt.

Zero #6 (image): With an arc in the books, er, trades, Zero—our #8 book of 2013–gets back to business with Vanesa Del Rey (artist on BOOM!’s quick Hit) bringing Ales Kot’s vision to life. OK, not going to lie: still not too sure how I feel about how #5 ended. I mean, aliens? Really? Going to have to trust my man Kot on this one.

Zero #6

All-New Ghost Rider #1 (Marvel): My only real exposure to Tradd Moore has been Zero #2, which is my favorite issue of the series thus far. Honesty: I don’t give a boo about Ghost Rider; I’m grabbing this to get a little Moore. We’ll see if the little’ll turn into a lot soon enough.

All-New Ghost Rider #1

Avengers World #4 (Marvel): The series has been mostly blah. Started off well enough, but it seems to have fallen into its “bigger” trap, leaving me asking, “What in the world?” Consider how much bigger my bag promises to be this week, this one might find itself displaced.

Daredevil #1 (Marvel): Speaking of being displaced: time to see what Waid and Samnee have in store for comidom’s newest San Franciscan.

Ms. Marvel #2 (Marvel): I was very surprised by how much I enjoyed #1. Reminded me of my initial experience with Miles Morales and how well Brian Michael Bendis handled–and sold–the character in the face of controversy. In this case, I’m hoping that Wilson and Alphona can keep Kamala out of the editorial web that ultimately ensnared Miles.

Ms. Marvel #2

Uncanny X-Men #19 (Marvel): Don’t judge me.

Winter Soldier: The Bitter March #2 (Marvel): Probably not. I didn’t really care for the first one. And after Remender’s Deadly Class #2, I’ve pretty well given up hope that he can deliver something that interests me.

X-Men #12 (Marvel): OK. Now you may judge me. You know, the series started off on such a nostalgic note, and I bought right into it. Felt like the X-book I had been waiting for since coming back to comics. Then came the momentum busting Battle of the Atom. Since then, the damn thing’s been a bit of a mess. I’ll ride out this storyline and decide from there.

Curse #3 (BOOM!): My curse: being unable to quit on a mini if I’m at least two issues in–even if I really don’t care very much about it. That pretty well describes this series for me.

Harbinger #0.2014 (Valiant): Everything you’ve wanted to know about the Bleeding Monk but were afraid to ask.

Harbinger #0.2014

Letter 44 #5 (Oni Press): Still loving President Blades, and right now that’s all that matters to me.

Shadowman #16 (Valiant): A monthly mystery: I don’t care a lick about any of the characters and I’m often vexed by all the voodoo; but I still like it. A major selling point: Roberto De La Torre’s art. It really suits Peter Milligan’s turn on the book.

The Sixth Gun #39 (Oni Press): I’m almost caught up! I’ve got three more issues to rock out. Know what? There’s no reason why I shouldn’t read through them tonight. There you go: I’m going to read them tonight; and I will read this one first. How’s that? Oh, and, umm, just in case you didn’t know already: it’s good. Really good. As I’ve mentioned in recent posts: the team of Bunn and Hurtt will go down as one of the greats of the modern era–maybe even of all time–because of the terrific work they’ve done on The Sixth Gun.

The Sixth Gun #39

X-O Manowar #23 (Valiant): Has been a solid read from the get-go. Aric’s another one of my favorite characters, and Venditti’s shown a great command of his character in and out of the armor.

Avery’s Pick of the Week

Scribblenauts Unmasked: Crisis of Imagination #3 (DC): My daughter has enjoyed the first two issues well enough. By “enjoyed” I mean “not torn the covers off yet.”

Veil #1 (Dark Horse): Greg Rucka’s killing it with Lazarus and has Cyclops in his sights. On the strength of the former and in anticipation of the latter, I’m thinking that this one’s a no-brainer.

Trillium #7 (DC/Vertigo): Through six issues, Jeff Lemire has insisted that we turn the page on our own expectations. As excited as I am sad, knowing that–including this one–only two issues of Lemire’s head-spinning layouts are left!

Clone #15 (Image): Clonetopia? Yeah, probably not. David Schulner and Co. have made it clear: happy endings end rather quickly in Clone–often after a single page turn. And what terrific page turns they are: artist Juan Jose Ryp’s attention to detail is astounding–not unlike the great Geof Darrow, no?

Jupiter’s Legacy #4 (Image): If I’m remembering correctly, I thought #3 was all right–certainly enough for me to ignore my oath to pass over any Millar material no matter how shiny. We all know by now that Mark Millar’s not concerned with our experiences as readers of his fine material; he’s too busy generating new ideas like…

Starlight #1 (Image): Of course I’m going to give Mr. Millar another opportunity to frustrate the hell out of me.

Velvet #4 (Image): Brubaker and Epting are taking their time, doing their thing, which is near-perfect cinematic slow-burn espionage.

Velvet #4

Loki: Agent of Asgard #2 (Marvel): I’ve never been a fan of Thor’s corner of the Marvel Universe. Al Ewing, however, has convinced me to extend my visit to a tidy right angle.

Moon Knight #1 (Marvel): I was crushed after the most recent–and mostly crazy–run of Moon Knight–by Bendis and Maleev–came to a close. Now, Warren Ellis and Declan Shalvey are in charge of the lunatic in white. Can’t wait.

Moon Knight #1

Uncanny X-Men #18 (Marvel): Maybe–just maybe–#17 was a hint; maybe it was the nudge I need. See: at the end of the issue, Cyclops kicks David Bond off the team because the new mutant fails to live up to expectations. Maybe–just maybe–I should finally cast this book aside because it hasn’t lived up to my expectations. Then again, Marco Rudy’s art looks ridiculously good. So, another possibility: Fate has kept me around long enough for this!

Afterlife With Archie #4 (Archie): The series has been so good for so many reasons. In fact, #3 was our #5 book of January–and deservedly so: Roberto Aguirre Sacasa’s storytelling–a brilliant balance of Archie and Afterlife–is top-notch, and Francesco Francavilla’s art is a perfect fit.

Afterlife With Archie #4

Archer & Armstrong #18 (Valiant): #17 was a rare sideways step for Fred Van Lente. It certainly wasn’t what we were hoping for from one of our favorite books of 2013. Wouldn’t you know: I liked #0.2014 a lot; in fact, it turned out to be one of my favorite origin issues, like, ever.

The Twilight Zone #3 (Dynamite): Has been surprisingly good. Certainly Straczynski’s best work–of the current batch, anyway. The shine, however, was taken off a bit after I read Sidekick #5. Seems Straczynski’s borrowing from himself–and he sure as heck isn’t being subtle about it! Sure, I’ve seen creators who have borrowed from themselves, usually from past work, but this is just silly: Sidekick and Twilight Zone are concurrent titles, for goodness sake! OK. OK. Wait a sec. Is this the Twilight Zone? Oh, well. Still want to see how this plays out.